A BLIND poodle suffering from a serious illness has been given an award by the vet who saved her life.

Tivoli, who lives with owners Frances and Ronald Colman, of Manor Road, Westcliff, is a 12-year-old miniature poodle.

Unable to see, and also suffering from a hernia, Tivoli is carried along Southend seafront in a basket or handbag instead of walking.

Mr Colman says their seaside walks always provoke “a million questions”, especially when Tivoli is spotted enjoying one of her favourite ice creams.

Tivoli has been blind for more than half of her life because of a breeding complication.

Vet Nitzan Kroter gave her a Brave Heart Award certificate, which is a discretionary award vets can give animals under their care.

The Colmans are full of praise for Mr Kroter, of Hockley’s Medivet Surgery, saying he has already saved Tivoli’s life three times.

Mr Colman said: “This award is given to amazing and brave animals, which have endured life-threatening illnesses. These animals have miraculously survived beyond what the professionals regard as almost certain departure.”